Reenactments of this story are part of celebrations in some regions. Another Diwali story in Hindu mythology is that Diwali marks the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura and freed the people of his kingdom. After he slayed the demon, Lord Krishna declared it a day of festivities. In some parts of India, people burn effigies of the demon kings in both stories as part of the celebration. People also celebrate the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi during Diwali.
In other cultures, Diwali coincides with harvest and new year celebrations. Households across India celebrate by decorating their space with small lamps called diyas and other colourful lights. People cover streets and buildings in festive lighting and there are lively songs and dance. Dazzling fireworks go off, creating a spectacle of noise and light.
This helps to scare away evil spirits and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Many people clean, renovate, decorate their homes and buy new clothes in preparation for the upcoming year. Diwali is also a time to settle debts and make peace. In the past, Indian and Pakistani soldiers have exchanged sweets along the disputed border, as a gesture of Diwali goodwill.
The most delicious tradition is the gifting of mithai sweets. This festival is as important to Hindus as the Christmas holiday is to Christians. Over the centuries, Diwali has become a national festival that's also enjoyed by non-Hindu communities. Buddhists in India celebrate Diwali as well. Hindus interpret the Diwali story based upon where they live. But there's one common theme no matter where people celebrate: the victory of good over evil. Learn more about the holiday at National Geographic.
All rights reserved. The Diwali celebration in India takes place when the monsoon season ends and the weather is mild and pleasant. People try to pay off their old debts, make or buy new clothes and thoroughly clean their houses as part of the festival preparations. House exteriors are whitewashed and sometimes decorated with designs drawn in white rice flour and filled in with color.
Buildings are traditionally illuminated with oil-burning bowls called dipa lights, or more recently, with strings of artificial lights. People spend time with their friends and family. Children are sometimes given candy or toys from booths set up for the occasion.
In southern India children wear flower wreaths on their heads or anklets of bells. Boys in some areas construct elaborate castles and forts of mud and display them for visiting guests.
After dark there are fireworks and people who live near rivers float lighted lamps on tiny rafts. To add to the festival of Diwali, melas fairs are held throughout India. These are found in many towns and villages.
Diwali is a gazetted holiday in India so government offices and many businesses including local offices and shops are closed.
0コメント